This hidden gem off the coast of Portugal is the best choice for a quiet beach vacation

For many people the ideal vacation is a quiet week or two spent lying on the beach. A nice bonus would be the absence of competition with other tourists for a spot by the water or a free lounger.

And such a beach can be found off the southern coast of Portugal. According to the Express, it is a tiny island called Ilha da Culatra off the coast of the Algarve. It is located in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, not far from the city of Olhão, and its main attraction is its huge beach covered with white sand. It stretches for 8 kilometers, so there will be enough space for everyone.

The island's population is about 1,000 people. Initially, it was a small fishing community, but now most of the locals work in the tourism industry.

You won't find rocks on the island of Culatra like on many famous beaches in the Algarve. However, it is covered with dunes. There are also no roads and you have to walk to get around. Still, this is not a problem due to the small size of the island, and there is a convenient path leading to the beach. And if you're really lucky, you'll be able to admire the dolphins and killer whales swimming off the coast.

Surprisingly, such a beautiful beach is never crowded. However, it is quite well equipped. In the summer, you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers, and lifeguards are on duty near the water. Take into account that if you go further to the east (to the left, if you look at the sea), the beach becomes deserted. Some people take advantage of this solitude and sunbathe there naked, although this area does not have the status of a nudist beach.

The beach on Culatra is certified by the Blue Flag because the water and sand here are very clean. In summer, the sea is usually calm and suitable for snorkeling.

Many people enjoy a long walk along the sea to the uninhabited eastern end or west to the lighthouse that marks Ilha do Farol. In fact, many people take the ferry to Culatra and then return to Faro and set sail from Farol (or vice versa).

You can get to Ilha da Culatra by ferries departing from Faro and Olhão. In summer, they depart about 10 times a day, but this time changes every year. In winter, the number is reduced by about half. Therefore, tourists are advised to check the schedule in advance. In particular, it is important to check the departure time of the last ferry so as not to get stuck there overnight or pay for an expensive water taxi.

From Faro, the ferry reaches Ilha da Culatra in 40 minutes, and from Olhão - in about 30 minutes. The ferry cannot travel at high speed due to the shallow lagoon of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, but it provides an opportunity to admire the view of the coast and seabirds, including flamingos.

You can't avoid the ferries if you want to relax on Culatra because there are no hotels here. It is best to look for accommodation near the pier of Faro. It is easier to get to this wonderful island from there.

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